Twitter’s Effect on Your Health

I consider myself a savvy internet user, but there are some internet tools that I refuse to use. Twitter was one of those such tools. I’m all about being as healthy as possible so when I see an addicting new internet tool I try to avoid it. Why? Simply because I know that I will want to be on it as much as possible. Twitter was no different. I stayed away as long as possible, but eventually gave in. You can follow me here: Israel Lagares’ Twitter

I gave in because I wanted to see what the big deal was that everyone was making. Now I know! Twitter is like a mini version of blogging, letting you use 140 characters per entry. It’s like an instant messenger and a blog molded together. It’s pretty addictive actually. I can see how someone would just stay online all day, tweeting away their health. But this isn’t about “killing” yourself by being online too much. It’s about the potentially positive aspects that Twitter can have on your health.

Advertisement

Side thought: I wouldn’t be surprised if some one starts some form of twitter-only blog or writing, totally removing any semblance of a blog hosted with its own domain. If you do, I’m expecting credit for giving you the idea ;). That would be a cool project actually. Anyway, back to what I was trying to get at with health.

After a few days of tweeting I started thinking of how I can use Twitter to help achieve my health goals and spread health information (instead of just letting it consume me). Twitter is a socially focused tool. It’s easy to build a large and dedicated community. That got me thinking: why not use this awesomely-awesome tool to communicate with people about health. It’s instant gratification. If you need a health question answered or a new workout idea just tweet it and bammmmm, you got it (if your followers have that info).

At the very least it can be a great supplement to the vast amount of web tools available. It’s pretty cool to see what some big name bloggers are doing and reading. There are some major brands that are starting to see the benefits of social media in general, which is an extension of their customer service. It’s also another way to network with like minded individuals, I’ve already made a few connections that may lead to good things.

So would you guys like to start a health focused Twitter group? Would you take advantage of this type of community? I would like to hear your thoughts.

About the Author

My name is Israel Lagares. I used to be the kind of guy that was always in shape, but over the last few years I've fallen off tremendously. This site is my final attempt to get back into shape. So far I've lost 70.4 lbs. Check out my weight loss chart, weight loss videos and progress pics. Follow my journey, those of others, and read our thoughts on various health topics. Share your thoughts, experience, and journey here on FMU.

Community Thoughts (18)

We encourage community interaction, actually we demand it! Add to the discussion, but please do not spam. Use your name in the name field, not a keyword. We have the right to delete comments we deem spammy. By submitting a comment you agree to the the full comment policy here.

I think it can be great. I am going to try it out on my site soon. It will give me the opportunity to challenge others and give up to date reports without having to wait for a post. I would imagine that the impressions would go up, not sure of the quality for the website.

Twitter really seems cool. I made an account a week ago and started following some people, even you Israel. Then when I tried sending a message I faced some major problems. I can’t send you any messages!! How am I supposed to keep you updated of all the important events in my life if my twitter does not work?

When did you try to send the message? If it was last week, Twitter was having some server issues. If Israel hasn’t chosen to follow you yet, you have to reply to one of his posts…otherwise, you can click on “direct message” and send from there.